Crodino soft drinks

An icon of the Italian aperitif, conquers with its unique bittersweet taste, perfect to share in every moment of conviviality, lightness and authentic pleasure.

Classico, Bianco, Arancia Rossa and Twist: the non-alcoholic aperitif that combines tradition and innovation

Crodino has represented one of the most recognizable symbols of the Italian non-alcoholic aperitif for over sixty years. Its story began in Crodo, Piedmont, in 1965, when entrepreneur Piero Ginocchi had the intuition to create a drink capable of capturing the essence of Italian conviviality. The recipe, jealously guarded by oenologist Maurizio Gozzellino, is based on infusions of herbs and spices that rest for six months in oak barrels, a process that helps create that characteristic bittersweet taste. Over the years, the brand has become a cultural icon, the star of unforgettable television commercials and a companion to social moments. The acquisition by the Campari Group in 1995 marked the beginning of international expansion, making Crodino not only a product but a true symbol of lightness and Italian spirit.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Crodino’s popularity grew thanks to innovative advertising campaigns, such as those with Brigitte Bardot broadcast on Carosello, and iconic mascots like the animated gorilla that made generations smile. This communicative approach made the brand familiar to millions of Italians and fixed in the collective memory the idea of a carefree aperitif suitable for everyone. Over time, the bond with Crodo has remained strong, so much so that the town continues to preserve the founder’s memory through the Piero Ginocchi Study Center, a place that passes down the culture and tradition of this invention.

The brand’s success has also been accompanied by a significant aesthetic evolution. The transparent glass bottle, always a symbol of the drink, has maintained its original charm while adapting to the times. In 2018, the bright yellow cap appeared, designed to highlight the product’s vibrancy. In 2022, the packaging underwent a radical redesign by RBA Design, with a 17.5 cl format and a minimalist label on the bottle neck, completed by an elegant embossed watermark that tells the story of the Italian aperitivo ritual. This contemporary design won industry awards such as the Touchpoint Award, confirming the brand’s focus on the balance between tradition and modernity.

The range of products available today is wide and varied. The Classic remains the heart of the offering, faithful to the original 1965 recipe, perfect for those seeking the authentic and unmistakable flavor that made the brand famous. Alongside it, a fruitier and bolder variant like Red Orange brings with it intense citrus notes reminiscent of Mediterranean summer sunsets. These are joined by more contemporary options, such as Twist, designed for those who love fresh and lively contrasts, and Bianco, delicate and clear, ideal for those who prefer a softer taste but still consistent with the brand’s identity. Each product maintains the bittersweet base that makes it unique, but distinguishes itself with small details capable of meeting different tastes and occasions.

The Italian aperitivo ritual is often associated not only with drinks but also with a rich gastronomic accompaniment. It is quite common for a glass of Crodino to be served with savory snacks such as taralli, olives, or breadsticks, which enhance its aromatic notes. This combination reinforces the idea of conviviality and makes the drink a key part of shared moments, both at home and in bars. Pairing with simple products from Italian tradition helps underline Crodino’s versatility, fitting naturally into different occasions, from a quick lunch to an evening get-together with friends.

The brand’s philosophy is summed up in the slogan “Take it easy,” which invites people to live every moment with irony and serenity. It is not just an advertising claim, but a true mission: to spread a lifestyle inspired by lightness and the joy of being together. The values of Italian spirit, quality, and innovation are reflected not only in the product but also in business choices. As part of the Campari Group, Crodino is part of a broader context of social and environmental responsibility, using recyclable packaging and sustainability-oriented projects. The focus on reducing environmental impact is now a key aspect of maintaining leadership in the non-alcoholic beverage sector.

An interesting fact concerns the recipe, which has remained unchanged and secret for over sixty years. Despite changes in ownership, advertising campaigns, and packaging, the formula based on infusions of herbs and spices has never been altered. This consistency has helped strengthen the brand’s identity and maintain a solid bond with consumers, who know they can find in every sip the same taste that has accompanied different generations. At the same time, the ability to renew itself through variants and formats shows how tradition can engage with modernity without losing its essence.
Ability to adapt to new consumer trends makes it a product that is always up to date, in line with the growing attention to healthier and more inclusive lifestyles.

Today Crodino is much more than just a soft drink: it is a part of Italian gastronomic culture, accompanying snacks, conversations, and moments of relaxation.

Its constant presence in homes and bars shows how it has succeeded in bringing together different generations around a simple yet powerful idea: living the small moments of everyday life with lightness and taste. From its birth in Crodo to the most recent campaigns, the brand has managed to cross time by remaining faithful to its roots while opening up to the world with a modern and inclusive language. This balance between tradition and innovation explains why, after sixty years, Crodino is still the most iconic non-alcoholic aperitif in Italy.

Quality

FAQ

When was Crodino born?

Was born in 1965 in Crodo, Piedmont. The idea was developed by the entrepreneur Piero Ginocchi, who entrusted the recipe to the winemaker Maurizio Gozzellino. The name comes precisely from the country of origin.

Is Crodino alcoholic?

No, is a completely non-alcoholic aperitif, made with a secret mix of herbal and spice infusions. It is ideal for those who want to experience the aperitif moment with gusto, but without alcohol.

In what variations is Crodino available today?

In addition to the Classic Crodino, the brand also offers Red Orange Crodino, White Crodino and Twist Crodino. All versions maintain the unmistakable bittersweet base and are available in practical single-dose formats of 17.5 cl.

Where is Crodino produced today?

The production of Crodino has moved from Crodo to Novi Ligure (AL), in the Gruppo Campari factory. Despite the transfer, the link with the territory of origin remains strong, also thanks to the activities of the Centro Studi Piero Ginocchi.